In this sculptural series, I combine knuckledusters with delicate floral motifs, each flower chosen for its symbolic resonance. These objects straddle beauty and threat. Like the 1960s peace activists placing flowers into the barrels of soldiers’ guns, I create tension through juxtaposition—but here, the intention is more ambiguous.
The floral decoration serves to conceal the weapon beneath, suggesting that the wearer may be hiding something. What appears ornamental or gentle may, in fact, mask something darker. This duality reflects the kind of hypocrisy often seen in political leadership—where a polished exterior belies harmful intent.
Boris features a knuckleduster carved from English oak, adorned with melted waste plastic shaped into forget-me-nots. Oak signifies strength, longevity, and Britain’s maritime legacy. Forget-me-nots speak to remembrance, but also nod to the blue of the Conservative Party’s logo. The title references a recent party leader, hinting at themes of power, legacy, and denial.
The series stems from my growing frustration with the dismissal of scientific fact. We live in a world shaped by science, yet many of its warnings—especially about climate change—are ignored or twisted. U.S. President Donald Trump called climate change a “hoax,” undermining decades of global research.
The impact is tangible: extreme weather, ecological breakdown, and agricultural disruption. As of mid-2024, the UK government continues to expand fossil fuel projects while neglecting green infrastructure.
Farmers are already facing unpredictable seasons, delayed planting, and rising food prices. A recent survey of climate scientists showed deep concern over the near-term future, with some predicting societal collapse within five years.
One researcher called this era 'The Age of Idiots'—a sentiment that resonates with this series. Whether beauty or brutality prevails depends entirely on the choices we make together."